Despite its name, it isn’t a true wolf—and it isn’t a fox either. | Maned Wolf

 

 

The maned wolf is the tallest of all wild canids, standing nearly a meter high at the shoulder. Despite its name, it isn’t a true wolf—and it isn’t a fox either. It’s the only species in its own genus, making it completely unique. Native to the grasslands of South America, the maned wolf uses its long, slender legs to see above tall vegetation as it hunts. It’s a solitary animal, most active at dusk and dawn, quietly roaming vast territories alone. Unlike many predators, the maned wolf is an omnivore. Alongside small animals like rodents and birds, it eats a surprising amount of fruit—especially the “wolf apple,” which makes up a large part of its diet. One of its most unusual traits is its vocalization. Instead of howling like a wolf, it produces a deep, booming bark—often called a “roar-bark”—that can be heard from miles away. With its reddish coat, black legs, and alert ears, the maned wolf is one of the most distinctive and mysterious animals of the South American plains. 

 

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